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Ruse History, Bulgaria

The city of Ruse in Bulgaria serves as a river port and is one of the most significant in the country in international trading. It is interesting to note that although Ruse is not as popular as the capital, it still competes in terms of the richness in its history and culture. The city’s past is just as spectacular as the other cities in Bulgaria. This is reflected in the facts of Ruse History.

Ruse History – Ancient Times

Ruse’s first and most established settlement dates back to the 3rd and 2nd millennium BC when the Thracians occupied the area. Archaeologists have found out through their excavations that the city was frequently attacked by neighboring tribes and had to endure some natural calamities. The settlement afterwards became a center of the Roman military and navy. Ruse later experienced a reconstruction after the Goths destroyed the city in 250 AD.

Ruse History – Bulgarian and Ottoman Rule

A fortified community named Rusi located near the Roman town ruins was first mentioned in 1380. This was during the Second Bulgarian Empire period. The community gained popularity when it started trading with the cities and towns across the Danube.

In 1388, the Ottomans reached the city and occupied it. Following the 1595 failed effort to liberate the city from the Ottomans, the city was destroyed by the colonizers. It had to be reconstructed in the succeeding years. By the 18th century, Ruse was already an extended fortress and later evolved as one of the most significant Ottoman cities along the Danube.

In the following years, Ruse saw the establishment of schools, a post-office, and hospitals in the city. Many famous European empires gathered in the city to trade.

Ruse History – The Liberation of Bulgaria

Ruse and the rest of Bulgaria were liberated from the Ottoman rule in 1878. After this, the city became a main center of culture and economy and was made the shipping capital of Bulgaria. Rigorous constructions all throughout the area has transformed its architectural look into a conventional Central European city. Ruse continued its progression as banks and insurance companies were established in the city.

Ruse was the setting of an important riot led by a group of Pro-Russian citizens. This insurrection ended with the capture and execution of the 13 leaders of the group. After a few decades, the city’s residents raised money to build a memorial for the fallen Russophile leaders.

Ruse History – The 20th Century

Between the two world wars, Ruse experienced a decline in its significance in both the economy and population. Many companies and consulates closed down and soon the city was demoted from being the second largest city of the country. Ruse was able to recover from this blow after 1940. It then became a provincial capital and its economy was revived.

Another event in Ruse History happened during the 1980s when the city was once again on the brink of decline when the Verachim factory was constructed. The building emitted too much pollution affecting the city’s progress. Many of Ruse’s residents left the city. The factory solved the pollution problems under the demands from various environmental organizations.

At present, Ruse is one of the fundamental centers of culture and economy in the northern part of Bulgaria. Its integration to the European Union is expected to positively benefit the city’s international opportunities and investments. Now it is open to trade with neighboring cities such as Bucharest and Constanta in Romania.

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